Anthony Hurley

Anthony commenced dancing at the age of 7; such an early age because his mother had a dancing school (now over ninety she is a Life Member of the Society). He took all ISTD Junior medals up to Gold Star and examinations to Elementary level with Cecchetti. At this time he was attending Ballet Rambert.

Ballroom dancing later became his first love, and with Miss Pamela Curtis they became the Junior Star and International Champions. Eventually Anthony moved up to the Amateur Grade with his new partner Miss Fay Saxton. This Amateur career lasted six years and culminated in winning all major Championships, including Star & UK, International, British Open, European and World Nine Dance. Anthony and Fay were also members of the British Team.

In 1960 Anthony married Fay. They turned Professional in 1961 and their daughter, Cherrie Anne, was born in 1962. Their successful career continued for a further 11 years until they retired in 1973. During this time they were Grand Slam winners 4 times and British, Star & UK, European and World Professional champions.

In 1974, Anthony was persuaded by the late Josephine Bradley and Phyllis Haylor to stand for election for the Ballroom Branch Committee. This was successful and Anthony later became the Chairman of the Modern Ballroom Branch. It was under his Chairmanship that the updating of the revised technique became the technique of the Imperial Society. He was also responsible for the organising of the Imperial Championships for the years 1977-1988 at the Civic Hall, Guildford. These are one of the most respected championships in the competitive dance calendar.

Now Anthony is a Life Member of the ISTD and has been elevated to the Society's Grand Council.